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Old 07-17-2010, 10:06 PM   #5 (permalink)
TheSnakeJake
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Quote:
Originally Posted by resopaton View Post
5W30 is typically recommended for drivers who live in colder climates. I believe the magic number is 20 degrees F. So, living in climates that drop below 20 degrees F 5W30 is recommended, in most cases.

Aside from climate, todays engines were built with tighter bearing clearances for better fuel economy, thus using a 5 weight (5W30) is recommended.

Older engines engineered with larger bearing clearances, or vehicles with high miles more than likely will achieve ideal oil pressures running with a 10 weight oil (10W30).

Hope this helps...
both 5w30 oil and 10w30 oil will be a 30 weight viscosity when at high operating temperature. the first number in the designation is the cold temperature viscosity rating...

therefore a 5w30 oil is better for colder climates because it has less viscosity (flows easier) at cold temperatures.
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